Echoes & Insights – The Laurens County Square and Historic Courthouse: A Civic Centerpiece
November 23, 2025
NOVEMBER 2025 COLUMN
Echoes & Insights: The Laurens County Series. Readers are invited to journey through the history of Laurens County, uncovering the stories, places, and people that have shaped our community. This series is designed to preserve history while sparking conversation about how it continues to guide us today.
We’d like to thank our Founding Sponsors for making this series possible. Their support ensures that the stories of our county are remembered, celebrated, and passed on to future generations.
The Laurens County Square and Historic Courthouse: A Civic Centerpiece
From its earliest days as a trading post crossroads to its modern-day role as a hub of government, protest, celebration, and community gathering, Laurens County’s Historic Courthouse Square has long served as the civic heart of the county. Framed by historic buildings and anchored by the imposing presence of the 1838 courthouse, the Square is more than an architectural focal point—it is a symbol of democracy, resilience, and local identity.
A Storied Past in Brick and Granite
The courthouse itself—constructed in 1838 by architect Dr. John Wells—has borne witness to nearly two centuries of Laurens County history. It’s a rare example of antebellum civic architecture still in use, built in the Greek Revival style common among public buildings of the era. From Civil War-era trials to suffragette marches, the courthouse steps have echoed with the voices of a changing county.
The surrounding Public Square grew up around this judicial center, becoming a bustling downtown district that combined government, commerce, and community life. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Square hosted everything from political stump speeches to local fairs and festivals.
Preservation Through Investment: The Penny Sales Tax
In November 2020, Laurens County voters overwhelmingly approved a 1% Capital Project Sales Tax (CPST) to fund major restoration efforts county-wide—including significant work on the historic courthouse itself.
Estimated at $3.55 million, the courthouse restoration project includes:
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Roof and exterior foundation repair
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Moisture control and structural stabilization
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Interior renovations, including an ADA-compliant elevator
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Preservation of historic architectural elements
This initiative reflects a deliberate choice to preserve and enhance the Square’s architectural integrity while improving accessibility and usability for generations to come.
“The courthouse is the centerpiece of our county’s identity. This investment will ensure that it stands tall for future generations—preserved, functional, and still central to community life,” said Jeff Carroll, Chairman of Laurens County Council.
Funding the project through a penny sales tax underscores the community’s shared responsibility and belief in the Square’s value—not only as a functional seat of county government, but as a cultural and historical landmark.
Renovation Nearing Completion: Exterior Progress Shines
Council Chambers
The long-anticipated renovation of the Laurens County Courthouse is now entering its final stages, with the exterior nearing completion and interior improvements steadily progressing. While the project has moved significantly forward, County Council emphasizes that the courthouse remains an active construction site and is not yet open to the public.
Hopes of having the building and grounds accessible during the holiday season have been delayed due to several critical safety concerns—including tripping hazards, incomplete handrail installations, and remaining construction activity. These conditions make it unsafe to remove the perimeter fencing at this time.
“We know the community is eager to see the finished courthouse, and we’re just as excited to unveil it,” said Jeff Carroll, Chairman of County Council. “But safety must come first. We’re making sure every detail, from the landscaping to the handrails, is completed to the highest standards to ensure a safe, accessible site.”
The exterior façade is now largely restored, offering a striking preview of the courthouse’s refreshed appearance. Indoors, the new Council chambers and other interior spaces are beginning to take shape as finish work progresses. Concrete work on the front steps and surrounding sidewalks is expected to wrap up in the coming weeks, after which landscaping crews will move in to complete the beautification of the grounds.
A formal ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony is anticipated for late winter or early spring 2026, when the courthouse will officially reopen to the public. Details will be shared as the date approaches.
County Council continues to express appreciation for the community’s patience, excitement, and support throughout this significant restoration effort.
A Living Landmark
Today, the Square continues to host parades, protests, press conferences, and performances. Events like Squealin’ on the Square, Christmas tree lightings, and Main Street concerts draw residents and tourists alike, illustrating the space’s enduring role in Laurens life.
Though located in the heart of downtown Laurens, the Square is owned and maintained by Laurens County—not the City—a reminder that it has always served as a county-wide gathering place and symbol.
Looking Ahead
While the final use of the interior space of the courthouse is yet to be determined, one thing is certain: the Historic Courthouse and surrounding Square will remain a vital centerpiece of civic pride and public life for generations to come.
From early justice proceedings to modern revitalization, the Square reflects both the echoes of our shared past and the insights of a community looking forward.
